Abstract: A tactile feedback switching mechanism having a plurality of switching states. The tactile feedback switching mechanism includes a plunger switch having a plunger. When the plunger is displaced a given distance the switch changes state. A covering lies at least over the plunger switch and includes a border section and a deformation section. The covering may be formed from an elastic material such as an elastomer. When a user depresses the plunger, confirmation of a change in the state of the switch can be tacitly sensed by a change in resistance provided by the covering. The resistance of the covering changes by deformation of the deformation portion of the covering while the plunger is depressed.

Abstract: A tactile feedback switching mechanism having a plurality of switching states. The tactile feedback switching mechanism includes a plunger switch having a plunger. When the plunger is displaced a given distance the switch changes state. A covering lies at least over the plunger switch and includes a border section and a deformation section. The covering may be formed from an elastic material such as an elastomer. When a user depresses the plunger, confirmation of a change in the state of the switch can be tacitly sensed by a change in resistance provided by the covering. The resistance of the covering changes by deformation of the deformation portion of the covering while the plunger is depressed.

Abstract: A user-controlled input device for use with a computer system is disclosed. The user controlled input device controls at least three-dimensional movement in a three-dimensional virtual space defined by a three axis coordinate system. The device includes a controller body and at least a pressure controlled button joystick coupled to the controller body. Displacement of the button joystick in a first direction translates into directional movement at least about a first axis. The button joystick includes a force sensor wherein an output signal is produced by the button joystick that is proportional to the force placed on the button joystick. The output signal is translated by a computer program into a rate of motion that is proportional to the pressure that is supplied by the user of the input device. In certain embodiments, a second button joystick is coupled to the controller body to control directional movement about a second and a third axis.